We spanned the globe to bring you a full year of celebratory happenings. Here is our can't-miss list of events, plus fabulous places to stay while you play.

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Montserrat: St. Patrick's Day

March 17

Here’s one for Trivial Pursuit lovers: What’s the only other country besides Ireland where St. Patrick’s Day is an official national holiday? The tiny Caribbean isle of Montserrat, where March 17 commemorates both the patron saint of the 17th-century Irish Catholics who settled the volcanic landfall as a way to escape English persecution, and a 1768 slave revolt that took place on this date. The 5,140 islanders celebrate with a slew of Irish and Afro-Caribbean traditions that range from green garb and Guinness to goat’s head soap and a junior calypso competition; visitmontserrat.com.

While you’re here: Hire a birding guide through the Montserrat National Trust, and strike off down a jungle trail to see species like the rare Montserrat oriole and the purple-throated Carib.

Where to stay: Perched high above the northwest coast, Gingerbread Hill is the best of the island’s numerous guesthouses, with four different lodging options including the aptly named Heavenly Suite, which has 360-degree views. Rates start at $45;